Water Heater Talk: What to Know Before You Replace Yours

Thinking About Replacing Your Water Heater?
Whether your current unit is leaking, aging, or simply can’t keep up with your hot shower needs, here are some basics to know before diving into a replacement project.

Traditional vs. Tankless Water Heaters

Traditional Water Heaters
These are the most common types—the ones with the big tanks. They typically cost around $1,500–$2,000, depending on brand and size. They’re simple, relatively affordable, and reliable for most households.

Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless units are becoming more popular—and for good reason. They don’t store large amounts of water, which means:

• Less risk of major leaks

• Unlimited hot water on demand

However, there are a few important considerations:

• Piping will likely need to be updated for a tankless system.

• Regular maintenance is required—usually once a year or every other year to flush out mineral buildup (especially in areas with hard water).

• Installing a softener or filtration system can reduce maintenance needs, but it increases your overall cost.

Susanna’s Tip:
For most people, a traditional water heater is perfectly adequate—unless you already have solar panels and are considering switching to an electric water heater. In that case, your plumbing will likely need to be updated to match the type of electric model you choose. (There are two main types, but we won’t dive into the details here.)

Questions to Ask Your Plumber

Before scheduling a visit, call around and ask for quotes. Be sure to ask:

• Does the price include removal of your old water heater?

• Can they pick up the new unit for you from Home Depot or Lowe’s after you purchase it by phone? Some plumbers offer this and just charge for labor.

• If they have a unit on hand, ask for the manufacture date.
  You want to avoid getting a water heater that’s been sitting in a warehouse for over a year.

Getting multiple estimates is a smart move—just make sure you’re comparing apples to apples in terms of what's included.

  Author: Susanna Leung

Susanna Leung’s goal as a real estate professional with Haylen Group is to help her first-time home buying clients find that perfect home where their families can grow, thrive, and live their dreams in the United States. She applies her experience in remodeling, resource networking, negotiations, and advanced marketing to provide her clients with dedicated, full coverage service.